Governor Corbett Issues Statement, Proclamation for Patriot Day

HARRISBURG, Pa., Sept. 11, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Tom Corbett today issued a proclamation and the following statement in honor of Patriot Day, remembering those who were killed and injured during the terrorist attacks in America on this date in 2001.

"As we mark Patriot Day, it is fitting to remember that the first battlefield in the War on Terror was a field in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, and its first soldiers were the brave passengers aboard United Flight 93,'' Corbett said.

"A love of country and personal courage flow in the veins of every American, and so it is fitting that we honor this very American trait. While we lower the flag to half-staff in honoring those we lost, we remember that love of country and freedom never waver in the hearts of our people.''

President George W. Bush and U.S. Congress designated this date, Patriot Day, a national day of service and remembrance, in honor of the thousands killed and wounded during the terrorist attacks on America.

Corbett ordered U.S. and Pennsylvania flags lowered to half-staff at the Capitol Complex and all commonwealth facilities today. Both flags are to be flown at full-staff on Thursday.

Media contact: Janet Kelley – 717-783-1116

Editor's Note: The full text of the proclamation follows:

PATRIOT DAYSeptember 11, 2013

WHEREAS, the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001, changed America forever. Thousands of innocent lives were lost in these terrible events, but in no way was this tragic day a defeat for our country; and

Whereas, the first battle in our War on Terror took place in the skies over Somerset County Pennsylvania, where 40 brave passengers aboard United Airlines Flight 93 rose up against their captors and prevented a strike on the nation's capital, at the sacrifice of their own lives; and

WHEREAS, out of the tragedy of September 11th flowed generosity, hope and unity while citizens nation-wide demonstrated extraordinary bravery and compassion. The people of America gained a new appreciation of what it means to be a hero and a patriot by witnessing the unwavering loyalty of our firefighters, police, medical emergency personnel, first-responders and individuals who put the safety of their co-workers and friends above their own; and

WHEREAS, on December 18, 2001, Congress and President George W. Bush approved Public Law 107-89 designating September 11th of each year as Patriot Day in remembrance of those whose lives were lost and in honor of the brave heroes who risked their lives that day; and

WHEREAS, we take time to acknowledge those left behind who have worked diligently to honor the memories of all victims.

THEREFORE, in memory of the heroes whose lives were so tragically lost on September 11, 2001, and in special recognition of courageous men and women everywhere on that day and everyday who selflessly risk their own lives to save others and protect our liberty, I, Tom Corbett, Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, do hereby proclaim September 11, 2013, PATRIOT DAY in Pennsylvania. I encourage all citizens to observe this day with gratitude and patriotism and to make a personal pledge to honor and cherish the freedom that defines America.